Forensic psychology is a specialized field which intertwines the law with psychological evaluation, assessment, and consultation. Forensic psychologists use their expertise in human behavior, psychopathology, and mental health to provide meaningful insights to legal decision-makers.
What is a Forensic Psychological Assessment?
A forensic psychological assessment, also known as a forensic mental health evaluation, is a set of assessment methods employed by a licensed psychologist to answer specific questions in legal matters. At Lowey Psychological Services, our forensic experts rely on scientifically validated assessment tools to ensure that our findings are both reliable and admissible in court. We provide meticulously prepared written reports and offer concise and persuasive expert testimony about our findings.
The Importance of Specialized Forensic Expertise
It is imperative that attorneys utilize a forensic psychologist when seeking an expert opinion for their case. Clinical psychologists who have no forensic training or experience are taught to focus on helping the person in front of them and not on questioning the motives for presenting information in certain ways. This makes sense for a treating clinician, as it is the most helpful approach to take when conducting psychotherapy. However, if the same approach is used during an assessment where there is the potential for significant external gain, the psychologist can easily be misled. Forensic psychologists are trained to approach evaluations with a critical eye, recognizing the potential for strategic presentation of information. While not human lie detectors, forensic psychologists utilize empirically-supported strategies to assess the candor of the individuals we evaluate. We do so because we understand that our role is to provide an objective evaluation that addresses the legal questions posed, rather than solely assisting the individual being evaluated. Additionally, forensic psychologists are adept at presenting their findings in a way that is clear and comprehensible to judges and juries. In contrast, psychologists without forensic training may find it difficult to explain their clinical opinions in the adversarial setting of a courtroom. This discomfort can be mistaken for incompetence or dishonesty, which can negatively affect your case.
At Lowey Psychological Services we provide a variety of forensic evaluations, including, but not limited to:
- Competency To Stand Trial
- Juvenile Waiver/ Decertification
- Violence Risk Assessments
- Psychosexual Evaluations
- Mitigation Evaluations
- Criminal Responsibility Evaluations/ Not Guilty By Reason of Insanity (NGRI)
- Pre-employment Screening / Fitness for Duty Evaluations
- Immigration Evaluations
- Individual Psychological Evaluations in Child Custody Disputes
- Child Custody Evaluations
- Parental Capacity Evaluations/ Bonding Evaluations
- Independent Psychological Examinations/ Independent Medical Examinations (IPE/IME)
What is Forensic Consultation?
Forensic consultation involves a forensic psychologist helping attorneys gain a deeper understanding of the psychological factors that may be at play in their case. This can be done through summarizing psychological research that is relevant to a particular matter or by conducting a critical review of treatment records and other psychologists’ expert reports. By retaining a forensic psychologist in the early stages of legal proceedings, attorneys can gain insights that aid in the formulation of an effective legal strategy.
Forensic consultation can also be invaluable in preparing for depositions and testimony with other mental health professionals. A forensic psychologist can work with attorneys to craft the most relevant and insightful questions for depositions and cross-examination with opposing experts and treating clinicians. Our expertise ensures that the questions posed are designed to elicit responses that clarify key psychological issues, challenge inconsistencies, and reveal information that could otherwise go unnoticed.
Health insurance cannot be used to cover the costs of any forensic service. Our fees vary based on the experience of the expert retained and the complexity of a given mater. Contact our office here to be connected to the expert who can best help you with your case.
